An unusual, deeply committed sweet, made with a wagashi maker's heart.

Omotcheese

Pop a small cube into your mouth, and you'll first get a texture just like freshly pounded mochi, followed by the rich flavor of a dense cheesecake. Public relations representative Ikeda looks back on the product's development: "Getting the richness of cheesecake and the stretchy texture of mochi to come through at the same time was incredibly difficult." The company's experience and knowledge, originally built as a wagashi manufacturer, proved invaluable here. They were thoroughly particular about ingredients too, using cheese made from 100% Hokkaido raw milk. The milk and heavy cream, of course, are Hokkaido-grown as well.

Since its release in 2011, its texture and concept have drawn attention, earning the Grand Prize (Hokkaido Governor's Award) at the Hokkaido Processed Food Contest. It also took first place in a sweets ranking on a popular TV program, quickly gaining nationwide recognition. Beyond the plain version, three variations are sold, including chocolate and strawberry. "Omotcheese" — amid a sea of stylish, sophisticated-sounding sweets, its honest, unpretentious name and approachable look might just be part of the secret to its popularity.